Out of all the players I’ve analyzed so far, many have been impressive. However, none have jumped out to me the way Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham has. At just 20 years old (birthday September 2), the Wolverine is one of the highest-ranked defensive prospects on the 2025 Consensus Big Board, and after watching just one game of his, it’s easy to see why.

What about him warrants a high grade?

When looking at first-round talent for defensive linemen, finding a prospect that can blow up the pocket and disrupt the passer is crucial.

Graham does this in spades.

His greatest strength is his strength, and his ability to force his way into the backfield is unmatched. Graham uses his strength to position himself and the offensive linemen wherever he wants and pairs it with many successful pass-rush moves. He lived in the backfield last season, and he created consistent pressure for opposing QBs.

Graham is also a wall against the run, anchoring down and clogging gaps. He rarely gets knocked off balance due to his incredible lower body strength. He is also a great tackler when the running back comes his way.

Per 247 Sports in 13 games:

• 36 tackles
• 7.5 tackles for loss
• 3 sacks
• 1 forced fumble

You might be thinking ‘Of course Graham is going to look good here, these are his highlights.’ However, it is a solid showcase of what he does well.

The Natty Game

Alongside his fellow linemen, Graham gave the No. 8 overall pick (Falcons) of the 2024 NFL Draft, quarterback Michael Penix Jr., trouble all game long when Michigan took on Washington in the National Championship Game.

One of the most important things to look at here is Graham’s versatility throughout the game. Along with the Wolverines, he switched up how he attacked all night, showcasing his power, speed, and football IQ.

Jaccoma’s Bottom Line

Can he help an NFL team win? – An emphatic yes.

Graham has consistently shown the ability to disrupt both the run and the pass at a high level. He has a game-changing skillset and three-down ability that will undoubtedly lead to success in the NFL.

2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report

#55 Mason Graham 6-foot-3, 318 pounds

Philip Jaccoma Jr.’s 2024 Summer Grade: First-Round

Projected by 84.9% of the NFL Draft Community to be a first-round pick as of July 18, 2024 (nflmockdraftdatabase.com)

Game film reviewed (2023): UNLV, Bowling Green, Minnesota, Indiana, Michigan State, Purdue, Penn State, Maryland, Ohio State, Iowa (Big Ten Championship), Alabama (College Football Playoff Semifinal – Rose Bowl), Washington (College Football National Championship)

Incredibly explosive. Progresses into the backfield consistently. Great use of hands to get off blocks. Impressive body control. Quick first step to swarm offensive linemen. Primarily uses bull rush successfully, but also has other pass rush moves he is able to perform. Immovable object against the run. Great tackler. Has proven he can beat double teams. Can occasionally get caught on blocks but isn’t thrown out of position. No alarming injury history has been found.

What to watch for during the 2024 college season

1. Overall performance against top talent
2. Disengaging from blocks more often
3. More sack production

Philip Jaccoma Jr. is a rising junior at Rutgers University, pursuing a major in Journalism and Media Studies and a minor in Sports Management. As well as being an aspiring writer and draft analyst for FirstRoundMock.com, he is a sports writer for his school’s student newspaper, The Daily Targum, and a sports broadcaster and producer for WRSU-FM, Rutgers radio. To view more of Philip’s work, follow @PJaccoma on X.